Avocets flock back to Lancashire reserve

Spring is in the air at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre with the first three avocets returning in the past week as part of the spring migration, the exact same date that they arrived last year.

The avocets will remain at the centre until early August, using the reserve as their breeding ground. In the past, numbers have reached 100 birds and it is hoped this year could bring record numbers.

Just 10 years ago avocets were rare in this area but WWT Martin Mere has introduced initiatives to help ensure the habitat is perfect for summer wading birds, such as hay making once all of the youngsters have left their nests.